CHANDLER, Ariz. – Chandler Public Library is planning to bring a fifth branch, a mobile one, to the community. Chandler City Council approved the purchase of a library bookmobile/techmobile at their meeting on Nov. 9.
Having a mobile library vehicle can accomplish some of the same goals as an additional branch, without the cost of a new building. It will make accessing library services more convenient, extend services to underserved communities and generate outreach opportunities at special events, school tours and other public places.
With the addition of a bookmobile, the library anticipates an increase in the number of cards issued, circulation of materials, program participation, in-house visits and collection turnover rate. The mobile outreach can also positively impact cultural and social connections with residents, enhance neighborhood quality of life and add to overall community wellness.
In addition to being an innovative and convenient library service point for all community members, with 11 Title 1 schools in Chandler and more than 40% of residents earning less than the median household income, there is a socioeconomic need within the city to remove barriers to library access and simultaneously increase literacy opportunities.
Services that could be available in the mobile library include STEM/STEAM instruction, Makerspace equipment, story times, job search assistance, library collections to browse, roaming reference services, mobile connectivity, technology instruction and equipment loans and heat relief supplies.
The purchase of the bookmobile from Farber Specialty Vehicles was made possible with $135,000 in funding from the Friends of Chandler Public Library and $500,000 from the Intel Corporation designated for library technology enhancements. It will be staffed by existing library staff.
There is a two-year lead time to design and build the vehicle so this approval from City Council secures a delivery date in 2025.
For more information about Chandler Public Library, visit the Chandler Public Library.
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